Styling Your Hair at Home During Quarantine: Tips and Techniques
With many salons paused due to the ongoing pandemic, it's become necessary for many to take matters into their own hands. The following guide provides detailed steps and advice on how to maintain your hair at home, whether you're a seasoned DIY hair stylist or a beginner looking to give it a try.
Putting Safety First
Before attempting to cut your hair, ensure that you are fully aware of the safety measures your local salon is taking to combat the spread of COVID-19. If a salon has implemented strict protocols, such as providing disposable towels, sanitizing surfaces and tools thoroughly, it's the best option to take advantage of their professional skills.
If you prefer to style your hair at home, consider investing in a clipper or having a pair of good quality scissors. For a clipper, I recommend familiarizing yourself with its use, especially when cutting around more sensitive areas like the crown. Numerous YouTube tutorials can guide you through the process, offering step-by-step instructions and demonstrations.
Scissor Techniques for Guys and Girls
As a guy, cutting my hair is relatively straightforward, but different techniques can be employed depending on your gender. For a male, the scissor-over-comb method is particularly effective. Here, start cutting half an inch at a time by lifting sections of hair and trimming the sides. For uneven hair or a fade on the sides, a clipper can be used to achieve a neater look.
For women with longer hair, you can start by cutting off a small amount, such as an inch or half, to get a feel for the process. Ensure you have sharp scissors. Once you find a comfortable method, it’s time to dive in. For a more modern look, divide your hair equally and cut off a few inches, starting from the back and moving to the front. This divided approach helps to ensure symmetry.
For bangs or side-swept pieces, take a section of hair above your forehead and comb it down. You can then cut horizontally near the eyebrows for a fringe or near the chin for side-swept bangs. Finally, layering your hair can add volume and a trendy touch. Don't be too critical, as lockdown and social distancing offer some flexibility in terms of making mistakes.
Additional Tips and Tricks
When dealing with hair at home, having a second mirror can be incredibly helpful, especially if you're a male looking for precise symmetry. A side mirror or a larger handheld mirror can provide a clearer view of your entire hairstyle.
Consistency is key when trimming hair at home. Set a regular schedule to maintain your haircut, such as every 6-8 weeks. This helps prevent your hair from growing too long in between visits.
Once you've completed your haircut, consider smoothing your mane by using a hairbrush or wide-tooth comb. This can help manage tangles and make your hair look polished. Don’t forget about the importance of styling. Experiment with different products, such as hair spray, gel, or mousse, to achieve the desired texture and style.
Final Thoughts
In these unprecedented times, many of us may find ourselves cutting our own hair. While it may seem daunting at first, with the right tools and techniques, you can achieve a satisfactory result. Whether you’re a seasoned stylist or a first-timer, the key is to take your time, practice, and have a sense of creativity. Maybe this pandemic will even bring new innovations and styles to the barbering world.
Stay safe, stay creative, and most importantly, have fun with your hair!